The Chilean Navy tugboat ATF “Galvarino” (TF-66) concluded its participation as a replenishment and logistics transport vessel in the 2023-2024 Antarctic Campaign by mooring at its homeport in the city of Punta Arenas.
The unit, part of the Third Naval Zone, carried out resupply and logistical support tasks, including the transfer of personnel involved in the Antarctic Campaign and more than 200 cubic metres of cargo to the Antarctic base “Arturo Prat”, the Army base General Bernardo O’Higgins and Gabriel González Videla, as well as sailing to Port Lockroy and Decepción Island.
Furthermore, the Galvarino provided services as an Antarctic Service Unit within the framework of the Combined Antarctic Naval Patrol (PANC), a task carried out annually in coordination with the Argentine Navy. This year, the ARA “Estrecho de San Carlos” (AVES) patrol vessel was highlighted by the Argentine Navy.
The Combined Antarctic Naval Patrol (PANC) has been conducted annually since 1998 when the governments of Argentina and Chile determined the need to coordinate a systematic effort in the Antarctic area of common responsibility, as established in the 1979 “International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue.” The purpose is to ensure navigation safety, human life at sea, and contribute to keeping waters free from pollution south of the 60th parallel south.
Regarding this, the Unit’s Commander, Frigate Captain Ariel Gutiérrez, stated, “During this mission as part of the 2023-2024 Antarctic Campaign that began on December 17, I appreciate the commitment of my crew for the intense work they carried out. We managed to fulfill the tasks entrusted by the Institution, supporting various bases and fulfilling our surveillance duty in the PANC, navigating 4,774 nautical miles during this period, equivalent to 8,841 kilometers. With this, we reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding life at sea, controlling maritime traffic, and protecting the marine environment”.
*Image credits: Chilean Navy
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